A Coast Guard crew intercepted a panga-style boat carrying 20 individuals approximately 21 miles off Point Loma, San Diego, on Tuesday. The interception followed a tip from a U.S. Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations aircraft. The Coast Guard deployed a small boat from the Cutter Haddock to investigate and found 17 men and three women aboard the vessel. The individuals identified themselves as Mexican and Chinese nationals. They were subsequently transferred to the custody of U.S. Border Patrol.

This incident comes amidst reports of increased maritime smuggling attempts along the California coast. Some local officials suggest that stricter border controls on land may be driving a shift towards sea routes. San Clemente Mayor Steve Knoblock recently voiced concerns about a rise in panga boat landings in his city, highlighting the need for enhanced surveillance and interdiction efforts. The city is exploring options like partnering with border authorities to install and monitor cameras along the coastline. This maritime route presents a new challenge for authorities tasked with border security.